Neuromuscular Research Lab awards first-ever scholarship

The UC Davis Health Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation’s Neuromuscular Research Lab awarded two recipients scholarships through a newly launched program.

The scholarship program was created to support students with neuromuscular diseases and individuals living with neuromuscular disease as they pursue aspirations beyond high school.

“This effort is fully aligned with the lab’s mission to advance care, research, and support for individuals affected by neuromuscular conditions,” said Erica Goude, the lab supervisor. “Following the first-ever gene therapy treatment for DMD, we recognized the impact the clinical trial was for the community and how that milestone has generated more hope.”

Goude said that milestone gave the team the confidence to continue beyond clinical trials. She and colleague Rachel Baek were then inspired to create the program to highlight patients’ resilience. The team created a crowdfunding effort, which made the opportunity possible.

“This scholarship aims to empower these students by recognizing their resilience, fostering their academic growth, and providing resources to help them achieve their goals,” Goude added.

The two scholarship recipients are Daylen Seng Om and Aidden Whitsett, who will be recognized at an awards ceremony on Jan. 29. Seng Om and Whitsett each receive $500.

The ceremony will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, at 4860 Y St. Click here to register for free.